■Discover the delicious taste of Japan: simple yuzu recipes you can make at home
Yuzu, a highly aromatic citrus fruit, is known as a hidden gem in Japanese cuisine, where its unique acidity and deep aromatic flavour combine harmoniously. It adds a refreshing twist to dishes and is loved by chefs and food lovers the world over. Enjoy the essence of Japanese cuisine at home with these easy yuzu recipes.
■Yuzu characteristics and attractions
Unique flavour and aroma: Yuzu has a more complex and rich flavour and aroma than other citrus fruits. This unique property helps to add depth and freshness to food and drinks.
Health benefits: yuzu is rich in vitamin C, which has many health benefits, including preventing colds and beautifying skin. It also contains antioxidants, which are thought to help boost the immune system.
■Uses of yuzu
Culinary: the peel, juice and pulp are used to add flavour and aroma to a variety of dishes. It is used to enhance the flavour of dishes such as dressings, marinades and sauces.
Drinking: yuzu is also commonly used in drinks such as yuzu tea and yuzu liqueur (yuzu sake). Yuzu tea is particularly popular in winter and is believed to warm the body and prevent colds.
■Popular condiments made from yuzu
Yuzu kosho: a seasoning made by fermenting yuzu peel and green chilli with salt, used to flavour seafood and meat dishes.
Yuzu dressing: a refreshing yuzu-based dressing ideal for salads and cold dishes.
■Popular easy yuzu recipes
1.yuzu honey glazed salmon
Ingredients
4 salmon fillets
2 tbsp yuzu juice
2 tbsp honey
1 tbsp soy sauce
1 clove garlic, minced
Salt and pepper to taste
Method of preparation
Preheat the oven to 190°C.
Whisk together the yuzu juice, honey, soy sauce and garlic in a bowl.
Season the salmon fillets with salt and pepper and place on a baking tray.
Pour the yuzu honey over the salmon.
Bake for 20-25 minutes until the salmon is cooked through and can be easily pierced with a fork.
Sprinkle with yuzu zest and serve with steamed rice and vegetables.
2.yuzu kosho spaghetti
Ingredients
200 g spaghetti
1 tbsp yuzu kosho
2 tbsp olive oil
2 cloves garlic, minced
Salt to taste
Freshly grated Parmesan cheese
Finely chopped parsley for garnish
Method of preparation
Cook the spaghetti according to the directions on the bag until al dente.
While the pasta is cooking, heat the olive oil in a frying pan over medium heat and fry the garlic until fragrant.
Drain the pasta and add it to the pan along with the garlic and yuzu kosho.
Sauté until the spaghetti is evenly coated.
Season with salt and garnish with Parmesan cheese and parsley.
3.yuzu marmalade tea
*This is for illustrative purpose.
Ingredients
1 tbsp yuzu marmalade
1 cup hot water
Honey or sugar to taste
Method of preparation
Pour the yuzu marmalade and hot water into a cup and stir until the marmalade is dissolved.
Season to taste with honey or sugar.
Enjoy this comforting drink on a cold day or as a soothing nightcap.
These recipes are just the beginning of what you can do with yuzu. You can incorporate it into countless dishes, from starters to desserts. Discover new flavours and textures with yuzu and bring a piece of Japan to your dinner table.
Enjoy the flavour of yuzu with the simple recipes presented here and you will not only expand your culinary repertoire, but also build a cultural bridge in the comfort of your kitchen. Have a good cooking day!
